After discovering how beneficial massages are to the body, I have a newfound appreciation for them. But massages can get expensive, so when Anel sent me their body oil to try, I thought I would ask my mom for some at home massage tips anyone can do. She's a Connecticut licensed massage therapist and has over fifteen years experience so she knows her stuff and was happy to help out.

She says that a lot of people hold tension in their neck and shoulders, so we chose three massage tips for these areas.

The body oil we used was fantastic. It is a blend of different certified organic ingredients including hemp oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil a few essential oils. The end result is a luxurious feeling oil that smells delicious and soaks right into the body. Perfect for massage!

The great news is that we're giving away one bottle (retails for $26) so you can try these out at home! Enter to win below and a winner will be chosen at random on Friday. Open to US residents.

Pin it! 3 massage tips for neck, shoulders and back!

Prepping to give a massage

My mom wants you all to know that the first thing you should do before giving a massage is wash your hands. :) Then, rub your hands together vigorously to warm up the hands so you don't shock your recipient with chilly hands. Pour a dime size amount of oil into your palms and place the hands on the back.

Before you start applying pressure, locate the spine so you'll know where to avoid pressing during the massage...because believe me, it is not pleasant to have someone push on your spine.

Neck Massage

For the neck, locate the base of the skull with your thumb. Then, move the thumb to the right so it's not in line with the spine. Move the thumb in small circles as you apply pressure. In my opinion, there's nothing worse during a massage than having the therapist go too light or too deep, so make sure to ask how the pressure is.

When you've finished on the right side, go over to the left, making sure your thumb isn't in line with the spine. Repeat the small circles.

Shoulder Massage

You can apply more oil at this point, if you feel you need it, and then begin with the shoulders. For shoulders, apply pressure with your thumbs as you follow the muscles that are to the right and left of the spine. When the thumbs reach the shoulders, you can gently (or firmly, if your recipient likes it) squeeze the shoulder muscles.

Massage for Back

For the back, you can use your middle fingers if you're going lightly, or use your knuckles or elbows (one at a time for elbows) if you'd like to go a little deeper. Follow the dots as shown, making sure to avoid touching the spine. You can start from the middle of the back if you're doing a chair massage, or you can start from the low back and slowly work your way up if your recipient is laying down.

After a Massage

After a massage, make sure to have the recipient drink a lot of water to help flush out any of the toxins that were stirred up. I hope this is helpful!

PS- Tips for a basic post-workout massage.